I left everything behind to live in an RV full time – saving thousands on rent
A WOMAN has revealed she has saved thousands of pounds on rent by moving out of her home and living in a camper van, but admitted there are some downsides.
Alyssa was tired of the rat raceand since she also loved to travel, she decided to get into a van full-time so she could easily visit all her favorite locations.
2
2
“I quit my job of 10 years, ended my relationship of four years and moved out of my apartment,” she said Tiny Home Tours.
‘I was so sick of the rat race and traditional life,” she added.
She moved in with her mother for a year to save and was able to buy a 1992 Dodge Ram camper for £11,400.
And although she doesn’t pay rent now, she had to spend £1,000 on redecorating, and a further £460 on furnishings.
Read more camper stories
Alyssa said she loves living in her small van, which comes with a built-in sofa bed, but admitted she hates having to spend 15 to 20 minutes setting it up every day.
“I wish I had a permanent bed and another chair somewhere because I just don’t have the energy or desire to change it,” she said.
Alyssa’s van doesn’t have a shower, so she has to go to the gym if she wants to wash up.
However, she said she doesn’t mind this as it is common for van lifers.
She also struggles with storage, but has come up with some inventive ways to store her things, such as hanging her toilet rolls from the ceiling.
The van lifer added that she is unable to prepare proper meals as she only has a hob, but added that she is considering purchasing a folding oven so she can enjoy some more comfort in the home.
“I would really like to make cookies,” she said.
Alyssa is a big fan of thrifting and has managed to source most of her decor from thrift stores or vintage shops.
“It’s really nice to have something different from everyone else,” she said.
Alyssa’s grandmother even made him a pillow and some other artwork to make the van feel more homely.
The Van Lifer spends most of her time walking her two dogs.
Is it legal to live in a van?
IF you want to live in a van to save money or travel, you’ll be happy to know there are no UK laws stopping you.
However, you must ensure that your vehicle has passed its MOT and is fully road legal.
There may also be restrictions on where you can park to sleep in your van.
For example, local authorities place restrictions on certain streets or parking spaces, and you could be fined if you spend the night there.
It can also be unsafe to stop at certain locations, especially at night.
Check the The highway code guide for guidance.
But when she’s in her van, she works on her thrift business from the comfort of her van.
Alyssa was initially concerned about the dangers of traveling alone as a woman.
However, she said she has now realized that living in a van is no less safe than living in the city.
“I would really encourage women who are interested in a nomadic lifestyle to give it a try as it is so much more affordable and doable than people think.
Fabulous pays for your exclusive stories. Just email fabulousdigital@the-sun.co.uk and put EXCLUSIVE in the subject line.
